Wayne Manor Sign Unveiled for Assisted Living Facility

A residence operated by The Dove Centre unveiled a sign honouring one of its first tenants.

Lorne “Wayne” Ross had Downs Syndrome and resided at an assisted living facility on 46th Avenue for years.

That’s why his name was brought to the naming committee by his family last year, who were in turn recognized for their work with special needs in Bonnyville.

“This ended up being a place he wanted to come to. We had a hard time getting him to leave this place after, he wouldn’t come leave for birthdays,” said brother Brian Ross in good humour.

“I remember driving up the window and he’d be looking at me saying ‘I’m not coming’.”

Their parents were instrumental in bringing The Dove Centre to Bonnyville decades ago, as growing up with a disability in the 1960s was a lot different than today.

“There were many, many hurdles. As a group it took a family to raise the young fella in those days. As far as it being challenging, it was also very rewarding. If you ever down, he would be there for you. He was extremely loyal,” said Brian Ross.

“We’ve come a long way in the world, kids having their own place is a big deal,” said Ross.

Deputy Mayor Lorna Storoschuk was also part of the naming committee.

“Brian Ross was instrumental in its inception to put the residence,” said Storoschuk. “It was actually The Dove Centre that put a request into the naming committee if there was something we could do, so we came up with the Batman theme.”

Wayne Ross was a big Batman fan, so that’s why the committee named the facility after Bruce Wayne’s home, Wayne Manor.

Wayne passed away four years ago.

In 2017, the naming committee renamed the west end ball diamonds to Paul Bougie Memorial Ballpark after the former town councillor.